Category: AMA Waterways Mekong River Cruise
THE MIGHTY MEKONG
Cruise the Mekong River along this fabled waterway through Vietnam and Cambodia, gliding past flourishing forests, lush green hills and colorful stilt houses. Our river cruise and land adventures also allow you to witness the majesty of breathtaking sites such as the Angkor Archaeological Complex, Ha Long Bay and even Bangkok’s Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Immerse yourself in the local culture and heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia. Authentic experiences in rural villages unspoiled by tourism offer you a chance to delve deeply into this life and to witness the time-honored methods of skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies.
Journey Through Vietnam and Cambodia
Walk the path less traveled. Discover the magic and beauty of a distant land. Delve deeply into local cultures and meet extraordinary people who have a remarkable resilience. At AmaWaterways, our love for travel inspired us to bring our river cruise expertise to the more exotic parts of the world, including Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong River.
Vietnam
Vietnam offers a variety of unique experiences. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city, blends fast-paced urban life and culture against a backdrop of modernization and pockets of French Colonial architecture. On AmaWaterways’ optional land package in this city, you’ll visit the Old Quarter of Hanoi, which boasts a 36-street commercial district, a colorful, bustling marketplace where you can browse for silk, bowls, bamboo products, sandals, lanterns and other handicrafts.
Ha Long Bay
Ethereal Ha Long Bay is dotted with more than 2,000 small islands that rise from emerald green waters like a dragon’s back. On AmaWaterways’ optional Hanoi land package, guests will spend the night aboard an elegantly appointed ship designed with all the modern conveniences to ensure smooth sailing for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in what is considered to be the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World
Cambodia
Rural villages unspoiled by tourism give you the rare opportunity to glimpse everyday life in this incredible country. Be welcomed inside a Buddhist monastery for a special blessing ceremony; aboard a traditional oxcart; and into artisans’ home workshops, where they’ll reveal family trades that have been passed down for generations. Plus, see the glittering “Pearl of Asia” known as Phnom Penh.
Angkor Archaeological Park
As part of our optional land package in Siem Reap, gateway to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for discerning travelers. Here you will find the Bayon Temple, known for its immense smiling stone faces, as well as the ancient Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King.
Sought-After Souvenirs
What will you bring home from your Mekong River cruise? Below are two guest – and crew – favorites that support local artisans and villages.
Mekong Connection
THINGS TO SEE
Known for ancient ruins, vibrant temples and awe-inspiring architecture, both Vietnam and Cambodia offer the opportunity to experience an all-encompassing adventure by land and river.
Land Packages Join Us, Stay Awhile
Enhance your Mekong River journey and maximize your international airfare by adding our unforgettable pre- and post-cruise land packages in Vietnam and Cambodia. Each land package includes stays at luxury hotels (or an elegantly appointed ship with modern conveniences in Ha Long Bay), as well as daily breakfast, guided excursions, convenient transfers and luggage services between your hotel and river cruise ship, and the services of a trusted Cruise Manager* throughout your river cruise and land journey.
*Bangkok extension is locally hosted.
The Distinctive Amadara
The distinguished AmaDara features French Colonial décor and richly carved wood furniture inspired by the history of the region, as well as local artifacts made by native craftsmen. Air-conditioned interior corridors lead to spacious staterooms and suites, most featuring twin balconies that invite the ever-changing scenery of Southeast Asia inside. On board, AmaDara> caters to your every whim, with massage rooms, fitness room, gift shop, hair salon and sun-deck pool. Her stunning Saigon Lounge provides respite by day and unites guests over intriguing local entertainment by night. Savor authentic regional delicacies and Western cuisine in the Main Restaurant or dine at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant. Throughout your cruise, you will also be treated to unlimited complimentary wine with lunch and dinner, as well as house brand spirits, local beer and soft drinks throughout your cruise.
Life On Board At A Glance
Exotic Cuisine
While traveling along the Mekong River, you’ll savor a wonderful blend of fragrant herbs and spices, freshly caught fish, exotic vegetables and fruits bursting with flavor, noodles and rice – the staple of all Southeast Asian cuisine. Using fresh, locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, our expert chefs prepare exquisite cuisine inspired by the Vietnamese and Cambodian destinations you visit, as well as a variety of Western favorites.
Local Recipes
Savor the local flavor at home by trying some of our delicious Vietnamese and Cambodian recipes!
Vietnamese Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
Taste these refreshing and healthy wrapped delicacies.
Vietnamese Pho Bo
Don’t miss Vietnam’s heartwarming national dish.
Cambodian Pumpkin Coconut Custard
Make any meal a special occasion with this flavorful dessert.
Chilled Pineapple Soup
Perfect for cooling down on any occasion.
Local Entertainment
Performers from local villages come on board to give you a glimpse of traditional culture, such as Apsara, the traditional dance of the Cambodia people. Dating back to the Angkorean era, this classical performance is best described as graceful and sophisticated.